Rickie’s not Lion in wait

REALISTIC: Lambert RICKIE LAMBERT admits he has probably played his last game for England.

The striker, 33, came off the bench to earn West Brom a point at West Ham on Sunday with a shot which deflected in off Winston Reid.

But Lambert, who has 11 caps, has not played for the Three Lions since coming on as a substitute in a 3-1 win over Scotland more than a year ago.

Asked if he is still hoping to gatecrash the Euro 2016 squad, the ex-Liverpool ace said: “No, not really. I am probably as far from England as I have ever been. I am okay with that.

“I totally enjoyed my England career and will always look back on it with fond memories.

“I am trying to get into the West Brom team at the minute. That is my focus.”

Lambert has started only three Premier League games for the Baggies since his £3m summer move from Anfield, with the bulk of his appearances as a substitute.

But boss Tony Pulis praised his professionalism after Sunday’s 1-1 draw at Upton Park.

Lambert said: “I am a bit more understanding now.

“It’s a long season, there’s no point throwing tantrums and not performing in training.

“I have never been that type of player or person and never will be.

“I know the gaffer appreciates me.”

Lambert insists the priority for West Brom is staying up before they can start to aim any higher.

He added: “I am fully respectful of the league.

“We are one of the teams that could go down, but if we can keep on improving, then we have a chance of finishing in the top half.”